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The Meze 99 Classics Wired Walnut Over-Ear headphones offer a closed-back, wired listening experience with a 40 mm driver. You might seek meze audio meze 99 classics wired alternatives if you need open-back acoustics, wireless connectivity, or active noise cancellation. This guide compares 6 options that share key specifications with the original, such as over-ear fit and wired or wireless connection types. We selected these models because their specs overlap with the Meze 99 Classics, ensuring you find a suitable replacement based on your technical requirements. The original headphones are known for their premium walnut wood construction and microphone feature. However, some users prefer the studio accuracy of Shure or the noise cancellation of Bose. Others may want the open-back design of Beyerdynamic for better spatial imaging. Each alternative in this list addresses specific needs that the original does not cover, such as portability or immersive audio. You can choose based on driver size, impedance, or connectivity options. This selection focuses on practical differences in hardware and performance. We avoid subjective claims and rely solely on published data to help you decide. The goal is to provide clear, spec-driven comparisons for your next purchase.
How alternatives compare to Meze
Shure Over-Ear Wired Studio Headphones
The Shure SRH440A shares the closed-back, wired design of the Meze 99 Classics but targets studio work rather than casual listening. It uses a standard one-size fit, whereas the Meze model highlights premium walnut wood construction. The Shure option prioritizes accurate sound reproduction for mixing and recording, making it suitable for professionals who need reliable wired stability. It lacks the tactile luxury of the Meze build but offers a focused acoustic profile for critical audio tasks. You should choose this if you value precise monitoring over aesthetic materials and collectible design elements.
Austrian Audio Hi-X15 Over-Ear
The Austrian Audio Hi-X15 is a closed-back, wired over-ear headphone that emphasizes portability and durability. Like the Meze, it connects via wire, but it is designed for mobile device compatibility and on-the-go use. The Hi-X15 features a compact build with specific dimensions for travel, differing from the Meze’s focus on luxurious materials and stationary listening comfort. It provides a robust wired connection without the premium wood finish. You should pick this alternative if you need a durable, portable wired solution for mobile devices rather than a high-end desktop or home audio setup.
Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
The Bose QuietComfort Wireless ANC Headphones switch from wired to wireless connectivity, adding Bluetooth and active noise cancellation. Unlike the Meze 99 Classics, which relies on a wired connection for audio fidelity, this Bose model offers noise isolation and long battery life for travelers. It includes a microphone and USB-C charging, features absent in the wired Meze design. The trade-off is the loss of a direct wired signal, but you gain convenience and silence in noisy environments. Choose this if you prioritize wireless freedom and noise cancellation over the stability and material quality of a wired headphone.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen Over-Ear Headphones
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen delivers immersive spatial audio and strong noise cancellation in a wireless format. It differs from the Meze 99 Classics by offering Bluetooth connectivity and spatial sound processing instead of a direct wired link. This model is heavier and designed for users who value wireless convenience and advanced audio effects over minimal weight. It includes a microphone and active noise cancellation, features the wired Meze does not provide. You should select this if you want immersive, wireless listening with noise control rather than a traditional wired audiophile experience.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Over-Ear Headphones
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Over-Ear Headphones provide immersive spatial audio and robust noise cancellation for wireless listeners. Like the Ultra 2nd Gen, it replaces the Meze’s wired connection with Bluetooth and active noise cancellation technology. It is designed for users who prioritize comfort and sound isolation over the tactile experience of wood and metal. The Bose model includes a microphone and spatial audio features, offering a different audio profile than the Meze’s closed-back wired design. Choose this if you need advanced noise cancellation and wireless flexibility for daily commuting or travel.
Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones offer an open-back design, contrasting sharply with the Meze 99 Classics closed-back construction. This difference allows for more natural spatial imaging and soundstage, ideal for studio mixing and critical listening. It is wired and targets audiophiles and professionals who prioritize sound accuracy over portability or noise isolation. The Beyerdynamic model lacks the premium wood materials of the Meze but provides serviceable components and a distinct acoustic signature. You should pick this if you need open-back acoustics for professional audio work rather than closed-back isolation.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Meze 99 Classics Walnut Over-Ear Best overall | Wired audiophiles seeking premium materials | |
| 2 | Shure Over-Ear Wired Studio Headphones Best budget | accurate studio monitoring and mixing | |
| 3 | Austrian Audio Hi-X15 Over-Ear Also great | portable wired listening on mobile devices | |
| 4 | Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones Best premium | Travelers needing noise cancellation and long battery life | |
| 5 | Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen Over-Ear Headphones Also great | immersive wireless listening with noise cancellation | |
| 6 | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Over-Ear Headphones Also great | immersive wireless listening with noise cancellation | |
| 7 | Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones Best open-back | studio mixing and critical listening |
Meze 99 Classics Walnut Over-Ear
Best for: Wired audiophiles seeking premium materials
- Connectivity
- Wired
- Form Factor
- Over Ear
- Back Design
- Closed-Back
- Features
- Microphone
- Color
- Black
The Meze 99 Classics Wired headphones combine a closed-back over-ear design with a 40 mm driver size. They feature a built-in microphone for calls and use a wired connection. The build uses walnut wood and black metal for a premium feel. This model suits listeners who want detailed audio reproduction and ergonomic comfort for long sessions without wireless features.
- Closed-back over-ear fit for sound isolation
- 40 mm driver size for rich audio
- Built-in microphone for calls
- Wired connection for stable signal
- Wired connection limits mobility compared to wireless models
- Closed-back design may cause less ambient awareness than open-back options
- You prefer wired connections for audio fidelity
- You want a closed-back design for isolation
- You value premium wood materials in your gear
- You need wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You require active noise cancellation
- You prefer open-back headphones for a wider soundstage
Verdict: Meze 99 Classics Wired Walnut offers a wired, closed-back listening experience with a 40 mm driver. It fits users who prioritize material quality and wired stability over wireless convenience.
Shure Over-Ear Wired Studio Headphones
Best for: accurate studio monitoring and mixing
- Connectivity
- Wired
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Closed-Back
- Use
- Studio, Mixing
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 10 × 9.85 × 3.23 inches
The Shure SRH440A is a wired, closed-back over-ear headphone built for studio monitoring and mixing. It features a balanced, detailed sound signature with an extended frequency response for accurate audio reproduction. The lightweight construction weighs 9.01 ounces, and the collapsible design aids portability. These headphones offer seamless compatibility with various audio interfaces and devices. They suit listeners who need reliable, transparent sound for critical listening tasks in professional or home studio environments.
- Closed-back design reduces ambient noise
- Balanced, detailed sound signature for accuracy
- Lightweight 9.01-ounce construction for comfort
- Collapsible design for easy storage and carry
- Wired connection limits wireless mobility
- Fixed one-size fit restricts adjustment range
- You need accurate monitoring for mixing
- You prefer wired reliability in the studio
- You want a lightweight over-ear design
- You require active noise cancellation
- You need wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You want customizable equalizer settings
Verdict: Shure SRH440A Closed-Back Studio Headphones deliver precise audio for mixing and recording. They fit professionals who prioritize sound accuracy and wired stability over wireless convenience.
Austrian Audio Hi-X15 Over-Ear
Best for: portable wired listening on mobile devices
- Connectivity
- Wired
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Closed-Back
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 11 × 9.97 × 3 inches
- Weight
- 8.99 ounces
The Austrian Audio Hi-X15 is a closed-back, over-ear wired headphone weighing 8.99 ounces. It uses High Excursion Technology for low distortion and features low impedance for easy driving from mobile devices. The metal hinge and foldable design aid durability and storage. These specs make it a solid choice for listeners who need reliable, portable wired audio without heavy power requirements.
- Low impedance allows clear sound from low-power outputs like mobile devices.
- High Excursion Technology reduces total harmonic distortion at lower frequencies.
- Metal hinge provides structural durability.
- Foldable construction enables compact storage.
- Soft memory foam earpads enhance comfort during long sessions.
- Weight of 8.99 ounces is heavier than some lighter competitors.
- Closed-back design does not offer the open soundstage of open-back models.
- You need a durable, foldable wired headphone for travel.
- You plan to connect the headphones to mobile devices with low power output.
- You prefer a closed-back design for noise isolation.
- You require wireless Bluetooth connectivity for untethered use.
- You need active noise cancellation to block ambient sound.
- You prefer an open-back design for a wider soundstage.
Verdict: Austrian Audio Hi-X15 Closed-Back Headphones suit users who prioritize durable, portable wired audio with good mobile device compatibility.
Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Best for: Travelers needing noise cancellation and long battery life
- Noise Control
- Quiet Mode, Aware Mode
- Battery Life
- Up to 24 hours
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth, Audio Cable
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Connection
- Wireless
- Features
- Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling, Microphone, USB-C, Long Playtime
These wireless over-ear headphones combine active noise cancellation with high-fidelity audio. You get 24 hours of battery life and multi-point Bluetooth connectivity. A wired option with an inline microphone allows use without a charge. The plush cushions and padded band support long listening sessions. This model suits you if you prioritize comfort and versatile connectivity in a portable package.
- 24-hour battery life on a single charge
- Active noise cancellation with Quiet and Aware modes
- Multi-point Bluetooth for seamless device switching
- Wired listening option with inline microphone
- Heavier at 8.4 ounces compared to lighter alternatives
- Larger dimensions at 7.68 inches height and 6.18 inches width
- Requires the Bose app for software updates and EQ control
- You need active noise cancellation for travel or office use
- You want wireless freedom with a wired backup option
- You prioritize plush comfort for extended listening sessions
- You strictly require a wired-only connection without Bluetooth
- You prefer a lighter build under 8 ounces
- You want a model without app dependency for basic functions
Verdict: Bose QuietComfort Wireless ANC Headphones fit you if you value active noise cancellation and long battery life in a comfortable over-ear design. They are a strong choice for travelers who need reliable wireless connectivity and a wired fallback.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen Over-Ear Headphones
Best for: immersive wireless listening with noise cancellation
- Noise Control
- Noise Cancelling, Aware Mode
- Battery Life
- Up to 30 hours
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C
- Form Factor
- Over Ear
- Spatial Audio
- Spatial Audio, Bose Immersive Audio
- Connection
- Wireless
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra is a wireless over-ear headphone with active noise cancelling and spatial audio. It offers up to 30 hours of battery life and features CustomTune technology to adapt sound to your ears. Weighing 1.06 pounds, it provides a comfortable fit for extended listening. This model suits users seeking immersive audio and strong noise isolation in a portable design.
- Up to 30 hours of play time
- Active noise cancelling with Quiet, Aware, and Immersion modes
- Spatial audio with Cinema Mode for video content
- CustomTune technology adapts audio to ear shape
- Heavier build at 1.06 pounds compared to lighter wired alternatives
- Larger dimensions with a length of 8.41 inches
- You prioritize wireless freedom and active noise cancelling
- You want spatial audio for movies and immersive music
- You need long battery life for travel
- You strictly require wired connections
- You prefer ultra-lightweight headphones under 0.7 pounds
- You want a compact, foldable design for small bags
Verdict: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless delivers immersive spatial audio and strong noise cancellation for travelers. It fits users who value wireless convenience and long battery life over minimal weight.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Over-Ear Headphones
Best for: immersive wireless listening with noise cancellation
- Noise Control
- Quiet Mode, Aware Mode, Immersion Mode
- Battery Life
- Up to 24 Hours
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth 5.3
- Form Factor
- Over-The-Ear
- Spatial Audio
- Bose Immersive Audio
- Connection
- Wireless
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra are over-ear wireless headphones featuring Bluetooth 5.3 and active noise cancellation. They include spatial audio and CustomTune technology for personalized sound. The design uses soft ear cushions and a pressure-spreading band. These headphones weigh 8.96 ounces and measure 7.7 inches in height. They suit listeners who prioritize immersive audio and strong noise isolation in a wireless format.
- Active Noise Cancellation with Quiet, Aware, and Immersion modes
- Spatial Audio for an immersive listening experience
- Bluetooth 5.3 connection within 30 feet
- CustomTune technology for personalized sound shaping
- Heavier build at 8.96 ounces compared to lighter alternatives
- Larger dimensions with a 7.7-inch height
- Wireless-only connection without a wired option listed
- You want strong noise cancellation for travel or work
- You prefer wireless convenience with Bluetooth 5.3
- You value spatial audio for immersive music
- You need a wired connection for zero latency
- You prefer lighter headphones under 8 ounces
- You want compact on-ear headphones for portability
Verdict: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Headphones offer immersive spatial audio and robust noise cancellation for wireless listeners. They are ideal for users who prioritize comfort and sound isolation over minimal weight.
Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones
Best for: studio mixing and critical listening
- Connectivity
- Wired, 3.5 mm
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Use
- Audiophiles, Studio, Mixing, Gaming
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 8.7 × 4.7 × 9.1 inches
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO is an open-back, over-ear wired headphone designed for critical listening. It features an 80-ohm impedance suitable for studio and home audio, with a frequency response from 5 to 35,000 Hz. The open-back design provides a natural soundstage for accurate mixing. Weighing 9.5 ounces, it includes replaceable ear pads for comfort. This model suits audiophiles and professionals seeking detailed spatial imaging.
- Open-back design for natural soundstage
- 80-ohm impedance for versatile use
- 5–35,000 Hz frequency response
- Replaceable circumaural ear pads
- Heavier at 9.5 ounces than some competitors
- Wired connection limits mobility
- Open-back design reduces bass isolation
- You need open-back headphones for studio mixing
- You prefer wired connections for audio fidelity
- You want replaceable ear pads for longevity
- You require wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You need closed-back isolation for noisy environments
- You prefer lightweight headphones under 8 ounces
Verdict: Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm delivers detailed spatial imaging for professionals who prioritize sound accuracy over portability. It fits studio engineers and audiophiles who value open-back acoustics and serviceable components.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Meze 99 Classics Walnut Over-Ear | Shure Over-Ear Wired Studio Headphones | Austrian Audio Hi-X15 Over-Ear | Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones | Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen Over-Ear Headphones | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Over-Ear Headphones | Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Noise Control | – | – | – | Quiet Mode, Aware Mode | Noise Cancelling, Aware Mode | Quiet Mode, Aware Mode, Immersion Mode | – |
| Battery Life | – | – | – | Up to 24 hours | Up to 30 hours | Up to 24 Hours | – |
| Connectivity | Wired | Wired | Wired | Bluetooth, Audio Cable | Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C | Bluetooth 5.3 | Wired, 3.5 mm |
| Form Factor | Over Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over Ear | Over-The-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Spatial Audio | – | – | – | – | Spatial Audio, Bose Immersive Audio | Bose Immersive Audio | – |
| Back Design | Closed-Back | Closed-Back | Closed-Back | – | – | – | Open-Back |
| Connection | Wired | Wired | Wired | Wireless | Wireless | Wireless | Wired |
| Fit | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Features | Microphone | – | – | Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling, Microphone, USB-C, Long Playtime | Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling, Microphone, Spatial Audio | Active Noise Cancelling, Microphone, Spatial Audio | – |
| Use | – | Studio, Mixing | – | – | – | – | Audiophiles, Studio, Mixing, Gaming |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black |
| Dimensions | – | 10 × 9.85 × 3.23 inches | 11 × 9.97 × 3 inches | 3.15 × 6.18 × 7.68 inches | 8.41 × 6.12 × 2.19 inches | 2 × 5.5 × 7.7 inches | 8.7 × 4.7 × 9.1 inches |
| Weight | – | 9.01 ounces | 8.99 ounces | 8.4 ounces | 1.06 pounds | 8.96 ounces | 9.5 ounces |
| Size | 40 mm | One Size | – | Regular | – | Regular | 80 OHM |
| Model | M99C-WB | SRH440A | HI-X15 | 884367-0100 | 890101-0100 | 880066-0100-cr | DT 990 PRO-cr |
Frequently asked questions
Can I get open-back sound with these alternatives?
Yes, the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO offers open-back acoustics. This design provides detailed spatial imaging for critical listening. It suits studio engineers who prioritize sound accuracy over portability. Unlike the closed-back Meze 99 Classics, it does not isolate noise as effectively. You get a wider soundstage for mixing tasks.
Do any options include active noise cancellation?
Yes, several Bose models feature active noise cancellation. The QuietComfort Wireless and Ultra versions block external noise for travelers. They also include Bluetooth for wireless connectivity. This contrasts with the wired-only Meze 99 Classics. You gain convenience and isolation, though you lose the simple wired connection.
Which headphones are best for studio mixing?
The Shure SRH440A is designed for studio monitoring and mixing. It delivers precise audio for professional work. The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO also targets audiophiles and studio use. Both options prioritize sound accuracy. They fit professionals who need reliable wired stability and detailed feedback during recording sessions.
Are there wireless alternatives to the wired Meze model?
Yes, the Bose QuietComfort series offers wireless connectivity. These models use Bluetooth and include long battery life. They provide a wired fallback option as well. This suits users who value wireless convenience. You gain mobility and noise cancellation, which the wired Meze 99 Classics does not offer.
Which option is best for portable mobile listening?
The Austrian Audio Hi-X15 suits portable wired listening. It is durable and compatible with mobile devices. The Shure SRH440A is also compact for studio work. Both are over-ear designs that fit well. You get reliable wired audio without the bulk of larger studio cans. They are easy to carry for on-the-go use.
Do these alternatives support spatial audio?
Yes, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra models support spatial audio. This feature creates an immersive listening experience. It works well for wireless listeners who want depth. The wired options like the Meze or Shure do not list this feature. You get enhanced immersion with the Bose wireless models.
Which headphones are best for travelers?
The Bose QuietComfort Wireless and Ultra models are ideal for travel. They offer active noise cancellation and long battery life. The Ultra versions also include spatial audio. These features help you focus in noisy environments. You get comfort and sound isolation, making them superior to wired options for flights or commutes.